Blow up: meaning, definitions and examples

Used for causing something to burst violently and suddenly, often used in both a literal sense (like an explosion) and a figurative sense (such as to lose one's temper).

• The bomb squad safely blew up the suspicious package
• Jake blew up when he found out about the mistake

Refers to something bursting with a sudden and violent release of energy. It is often used literally for physical explosions but can also describe sudden, intense emotional reactions.

• The gas canister could explode if exposed to high temperatures
• She felt like she would explode with anger

Specifically used for setting off an explosive device. It is commonly used in military, scientific, and technical contexts.

• The engineers will detonate the charges at noon
• The terrorist tried to detonate a bomb in the city center

A general term for causing something to be ruined or to cease to exist. It can be used for both physical and non-physical contexts.

• The hurricane destroyed many homes
• This new evidence could destroy his reputation

To describe a situation when something explodes or gets very angry suddenly. This can have a negative connotation when referring to anger.

• The bomb is going to blow up if we don't defuse it.
• She might blow up if she hears the bad news.

To describe filling something with air or gas, often used with physical objects like balloons or tires. Can also be used metaphorically for increasing numbers or prices.

• Please inflate the tire before we go on our trip.
• The costs of the project have been artificially inflated.

To describe filling something with air or enthusiasm, often used in a casual or informal context.

• Can you pump up the bicycle tires?
• The coach tried to pump up the team before the big game.

To describe something growing larger in size, volume, or scope over time. Usually used in a formal or neutral context.

• The company plans to expand its operations overseas.
• When heated, the metal will expand.